Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders (boneless skinless); 1/2 cup white flour; Salt and Pepper; 6 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter); 3 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1 cup Panko; 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated); Famous Fry Sauce

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There’s something irresistibly comforting about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Growing up, my family would often prepare this dish on special occasions, and the smell of golden, crispy chicken wafting through the house is a memory I cherish. Imagine biting into a tender piece of chicken coated in a deliciously savory garlic and parmesan crust! Every crispy bite takes me back to those joyful family gatherings, where laughter and delicious food were the highlights of the evening. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends, making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders brings me immense joy and satisfaction. Perfectly paired with a dipping sauce, these tenders are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and memories.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Utopia Kitchen Cooking Knives, Microplane Grater, Nordic Wave Baking Sheet

Why This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Works

1. Crispy Perfection

What I love most about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is the incredible texture. The combination of the crispy Panko breadcrumbs and the savory Parmesan cheese creates a satisfying crunch that’s hard to resist. Each bite offers a delightful contrast between the tender chicken and the crispy coating, making it a dish that everyone enjoys.

2. Flavor Explosion

This recipe is packed with flavor, thanks to the delicious blend of garlic, basil, and paprika. The minced garlic infuses the chicken with aromatic goodness, while the Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to another level. Each ingredient works together harmoniously to create a mouthwatering taste that keeps you coming back for more.

3. Versatile Dish

Another reason I adore Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is their versatility. They can be served as a main dish, a finger food for parties, or even as a delicious topping on salads. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these tenders are sure to impress your guests and family alike.

4. Easy Preparation

When life gets busy, this recipe offers a straightforward solution without sacrificing flavor. With simple steps and minimal prep, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be whipped up quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. You can have a delectable meal on the table in no time, and the clean-up is just as easy!

5. Kid-Friendly Appeal

Kids and adults both love chicken tenders, and this recipe is no exception! The familiar shape and inviting crunchy coating make these tenders a hit with picky eaters. Plus, dipping them into your favorite sauces adds an element of fun, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.

Main Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

When it comes to the ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, simplicity and quality are key. These ingredients not only complement each other beautifully but also create a dish that’s full of flavor. The star of the show is, of course, the tender pieces of chicken, which provide a juicy and satisfying base. The combination of Parmesan cheese, Panko, and aromatic herbs creates a mouthwatering crust that elevates this dish.

1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders (boneless skinless): The main ingredient providing tender, juicy bites that are perfect for this recipe.
1/2 cup white flour: This is used as a base for the coating, helping the other ingredients adhere to the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
6 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter): Adds moisture and helps achieve that golden, crispy crust.
3 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses the tenders with a rich, aromatic flavor that everyone loves.
1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a herby note that complements the other flavors perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and a touch of color to the dish.
1 cup Panko: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give an extra crunch to the coating.
2/3 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Imparts a deliciously nutty and salty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
Famous Fry Sauce: A perfect dipping sauce to serve alongside the tenders for a delightful experience.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful smells. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have crispy, delicious tenders ready to serve in no time. It’s all about getting that perfect coating and ensuring the chicken is cooked through.

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken tenders. This ensures you have clean pieces that will cook evenly.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This temperature is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.
Set out three bowls. In the first bowl, combine the white flour with a bit of salt and pepper, about 1/4 teaspoon of each. Stir it well to make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
In your second bowl, mix together the olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic. This mixture will add flavor and moisture to the tenders.
In the third bowl, combine the dried basil, paprika, Panko, and Parmesan cheese. Stir it all together, ensuring an even mix of the crunchy coating ingredients.
Now it’s time to coat the tenders. Start by placing a piece of chicken in the flour mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated on all sides.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the garlic oil mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. This step is crucial for the next layer to stick.
Finally, roll the chicken in the Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch.
Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced out, as this allows the heat to circulate and crisp them up nicely.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. After this time, flip the tenders over and bake for another 5 to 8 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. This ensures they’re cooked through and safe to eat.
Once done, remove the tenders from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Enjoy them immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking in Batches: If you’re making a large quantity, consider cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. This helps maintain crispiness.
Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees F for safety.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with herbs and spices in the coating for different flavor profiles.
Resting Time: Let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them moist.

Helpful Hints

When preparing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, there are always little things that can enhance your experience. Here are some tips that I’ve gathered over the years:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days to keep them fresh.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked, coated tenders. Just place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to two months.
Pairing: Serve these tenders with a fresh garden salad or crispy fries for a complete meal experience.
Dipping Sauces: Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite BBQ sauce for a twist.
Meal Prep: Make these tenders ahead of time, freeze, and bake them straight from the freezer for quick weeknight meals.

Serving Ideas for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

When it comes to serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, there are endless possibilities that can elevate your meal:

Quick Lunch: Serve them on a toasted bun with lettuce and tomato for a quick and delicious lunch option.
Game Day Snack: These tenders make for an excellent game day snack. Just set out a variety of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy!
Family Dinner: Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded family dinner.
Festive Occasions: Make these tenders for parties or gatherings – they’re always a crowd-pleaser!
Seasonal Pairing: In the summer, serve them with a light pasta salad or coleslaw to keep the meal fresh and vibrant.
Leftover Transformation: Use leftover tenders in salads or wraps to create new meals with ease.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders and coat them in the breadcrumbs ahead of time. Just place them on a baking sheet and cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your oven and bake them as directed. This makes for a quick meal on busy nights!

There are so many delicious options when it comes to dipping sauces for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Classic choices include ranch dressing, honey mustard, and BBQ sauce. For something different, try a spicy buffalo sauce or a zesty garlic aioli. Whatever you choose, these tenders are sure to shine!

Yes, you can freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. If you’ve prepared the tenders but haven’t yet cooked them, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a ziplock bag. To cook, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few more minutes to the cooking time. This is a great way to have a quick meal ready to go!

The best way to ensure that your chicken tenders are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F. This guarantees that the chicken is both safe to eat and wonderfully juicy. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a fantastic addition to any meal, providing a crispy, flavorful experience that’s hard to forget. They’re not just a dish, but a way to create memories around the dinner table. I encourage you to try these tenders for your next family meal or gathering. You won’t regret it!